Are Shasta daisies the same as Leucanthemum ? This is a common question among garden partizan , and the answer is both yes and no . Shasta daisies ( Leucanthemum x superbum ) are a specific character of daisy that is a hybrid cross between the Portuguese daisy ( Leucanthemum lacustre ) and the Max chrysanthemum ( Leucanthemum maximum ) . This hybrid was developed by Luther Burbank , a famed American horticulturist , back in 1890 .
When equate Shasta daisy to other type of Leucanthemum , there are certainly some similarity . Both belong to the Asteraceae family and portion out the characteristic daisy - like blossom embodiment with whitened petals ring a yellow center . They also have like growing habit , prefer full Dominicus and well - debilitate soil .
However , there are also some famed difference between Shasta daisy and other Leucanthemum assortment . Shasta daisies are generally large and more robust than their counterparts . They often reach heights of 2 to 3 feet and have larger efflorescence , up to 4 inches in diameter . This makes them a prominent add-on to any garden or landscape .
Another authoritative preeminence is that Shasta daisy are uninventive hybrids , stand for they do not produce viable seeds . This can be both an advantage and a disadvantage for gardeners . On one hand , it mean that Shasta daisy will not ego - seed and take over your garden . On the other mitt , it also means that they can not procreate naturally , so extension must be done through other mean such as sectionalization or bow cuttings .
One of the ground why Shasta daisy have become so democratic among gardener is their prolonged bloom full stop . While some Leucanthemum variety may only blossom for a few weeks , Shasta daisies can bloom from early summertime until the first frost . This long - hold up display of flowers adds a delightful touch of ashen to the garden throughout the farm season .
In term of forethought and maintenance , Shasta daisies are relatively well-situated to grow . They are stalwart perennials and can allow a wide chain of mountains of climates , from hot summers to chilly winters . Regular watering is substantive during dry spells , but they can also withstand short period of drouth . Deadheading spent flowers will further uninterrupted blooming and forbid self - seeding .
Shasta daisy can be used in various ways in the garden . They make first-class cut flowers , add together a pollyannaish ghost to bouquets and floral system . Their tall height and large flowers also make them suitable for the back of borders or as focal points in a garden bed . Additionally , they attract pollinators like bee and butterfly stroke , put up to the overall biodiversity of your garden .
In my personal experience , I have find Shasta daisies to be reliable and scurvy - alimony plant life . Their vibrant bloodless flush always bring a signified of glow and honor to my garden . I have used them as a backcloth for colored annuals and perennial , creating a spectacular contrast that never fails to catch the eye . Furthermore , their extended bloom geological period ensures that there is always something interesting befall in the garden .
While Shasta daisies are a type of Leucanthemum , they are a specific hybrid hybridisation that differ from other varieties . Their larger size , extend blooming geological period , and sterile nature make them singular and highly desirable for gardeners . Whether you choose to farm Shasta daisies or other Leucanthemum multifariousness , you may expect to enjoy the classical stunner of daisy - like flowers in your garden .
Caroline Bates
